Rolling Hills Awarded AZA Accreditation

KSAL Staff - September 21, 2015 11:44 am

Last week Rolling Hills Zoo was awarded accreditation by the Association of Zoos & Aquariums (AZA) through their independent Accreditation Commission.

According to the zoo, the AZA Accreditation process helps ensure that the Zoo has and will continue to meet the ever-rising standards that include animal care, veterinary programs, conservation, education, visitor services, and safety. The Zoo is required to undergo this thorough accreditation process every five years in order to be members of the Association.

“The Rolling Hills Zoo has been committed to being on a par with the other zoological institutions that meet the highest standards and are proven leaders in the care and conservation of wildlife as well as education,” said Robert Jenkins, Executive Director of the Zoo. “AZA accreditation is in effect the “good Zoo-keeping seal of approval” and means that the public can expect the very best in animal care and education programming.”

To be accredited, Rolling Hills Zoo underwent a rigorous review of its records, policies and procedures covering its entire operation at the beginning of the year. The Commission then conducted a meticulous on-site inspection by a team of trained zoo professionals which took place earlier this summer. The inspecting team observed all aspects of the Zoo’s operation, including daily animal care; keeper training; safety for visitors, staff and animals; educational programs; conservation efforts; veterinary programs; financial stability; risk management; visitor services; and other areas. Finally, senior staff were interviewed at a formal hearing of AZA’s independent Accreditation Commission, after which accreditation was granted without reservation. “This achievement is the direct result of the support the Zoo receives from its Board of Directors and the local community, and the incredible hard work its staff does each and every day to keep the Zoo the wonderful family experience it is”, stated Jenkins.